Veteran actor Anupam Kher will take over as chairperson of the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), replacing actor Gajendra Chauhan, whose appointment to the post in 2015 sparked controversy.
'I feel deeply humbled and honoured to be apportioned as the Chairman of iconic #FTII. I will perform my duties to the best of my abilities... It is the most humbling feeling when more than 15000 students show their love, appreciation and warmth, (sic)' tweeted @AnupamPkher shortly after the decision was made public on Wednesday.
On the other hand, the credibility of his 61-year-old predecessor, Gajendra Chauhan, to head such a prestigious organisation was questioned right from the start of his tenure.
The little-known actor hardly has any notable role in a career spanning over three decades. Best known for essaying Yudhishthir in BR Chopra's 80's megaserial, Mahabharat, on Doordarshan, Chauhan's resume mostly overflows with Cgrade films, many of which were skin flicks like Vasna, Jungle Ki Rani and Jawaani Jaaneman.